The Pennsylvania Department of Health is investigating four Salmonella outbreaks at healthcare facilities in southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is investigating four Salmonella outbreaks at healthcare facilities in southeastern Pennsylvania. To date, we have identified 29 case-patients who spent time during their incubation periods in one of four healthcare facilities experiencing outbreaks, which include two hospitals and two long-term care facilities (LTCFs). Known onset dates range from November 19-November 30, 2019. Case identification is ongoing, which is essential to identify exposure risks, ensure appropriate clinical management, and implement prevention strategies.

Symptoms of Salmonella include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Diarrhea is sometimes bloody. Symptoms usually begin within 12 to 72 hours after exposure, but they can begin up to a week or more after exposure. Salmonella infections usually resolve in 5 to 7 days, but may require hospitalization, especially for patients who are immunocompromised. Invasive infections (for example, blood stream infections, meningitis) may occur. In rare cases, Salmonella infections can lead to death.